Powell Elementary School in Birmingham, AL closed in 2004 and last served grades K–5 with an enrollment of 123 students, predominantly Black (120 students) and 3 White students.
The school had a very high percentage of students eligible for free lunch, around 96%, indicating a predominantly low–income student body before closure.
Math proficiency was consistently low before closure, with a 5% proficiency rate in 2023 compared to the state average of 30%, showing weaker academic performance than the state.
Reading proficiency was higher than the state average in 2022 at 69% versus 47%, but science proficiency lagged at 5% compared to the state average of 38%.
Student–teacher ratio and graduation rates data ceased after closure, but prior to closing, the school operated with a student–teacher ratio around 9:1 in 2003.
School Overview
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-5
Total Students
123 students
Total Classroom Teachers (02-03)
13 teachers
School Rankings
Student-Teacher Ratio
n/a
17:1
American Indian
n/a
1%
Asian
n/a
1%
Hispanic
n/a
11%
Black
98%
32%
White
2%
51%
Hawaiian
n/a
n/a
Two or more races
n/a
4%
All Ethnic Groups
Eligible for Free Lunch
96%
56%
Eligible for Reduced Lunch
1%
5%
School Statewide Testing
School District Name
Birmingham City School District
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), AL Dept. of Education
Frequently Asked Questions
How many students attend Powell Elementary School?
123 students attend Powell Elementary School.
What is the racial composition of the student body?
98% of Powell Elementary School students are Black, and 2% of students are White.
What grades does Powell Elementary School offer ?
Powell Elementary School offers enrollment in grades Kindergarten-5
What school district is Powell Elementary School part of?
Powell Elementary School is part of Birmingham City School District.
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